CABA Information Series

IS-2008-140: Net-Zero Energy, High-Performance Green Buildings

This report from the U.S. National Science and Technology Council described plans for Federal R&D into efficient buildings that on average consume no power. This R&D effort was mandated by Congress in energy laws passed in 2005 and 2007. Current technologies can reduce energy consumption in buildings by 30-50%. Commercial buildings consume about 40% of national energy and account for 40% of green house gasses. Also addressed are occupant health and indoor environmental quality. Methods for disseminating research results to industry are presented.